This spring, I took up an unlikely sport- rowing. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying: “do one thing every day that scares you”. For me, being out in deep waters is outside my comfort zone. I’m quite happy laying next to any body of water (especially with an ice tea or pina coloda in hand) but being out in the ocean is something else. Yet, rowing in one of those long skulls always looked intriguing to me; with the graceful motion of the rowers stroking in unison.

So when the season came around, I signed up for lessons. I was excited leading up to the first class, but felt anxious as we learned how to get into the wobbly boat, lock our oars and strap our feet in. But guess what? I didn’t fall in.

During the second class, we put our short lived skills to the test and actually went out onto the water. Feeling anxious would be an understatement, but it was quickly replaced with a surge of confidence and accomplishment. Class after class, I started mastering the art of rowing. So when the summer session came around, I signed up for it again. I often sub for other people who can't make their class, as early as 6:30 am. Rowing is a team sport and requires 4 other rowers and a coxswain to be in the boat. So when one person can't make their scheduled class, they ned to line up a substitute so others in the boat can go out.

Rowing has offered many pleasant surprises:

Even on a rainy day (we go out rain or shine) is enjoyable with the peace and calmness of the ocean.

It’s truly a team sport that requires patience and cooperation with others- and camraderie too.

It’s one of the best exercises to burn calories and is great for the legs.

What's your scary thing that you might like to try?